On Wednesday, the legislature adopted an NDP motion to make sure there continues to be an elementary school downtown.

“The Liberals chose to vote against the motion and voted against an elementary school in downtown Whitehorse,” the NDP said in a statement.

“Since I introduced this motion in favour of an elementary school downtown, I have been flooded by emails and letters from residents who told me why an elementary school is essential to keep our downtown core alive,” said NDP Whitehorse Centre MLA Emily Tredger. “The support from residents is there.”

Last summer, the NDP said, “the Liberals announced, with no notice to parents, staff or without any consultation with the community, that they would be closing the École Whitehorse Elementary School and moving the French immersion program in a new school in Takhini.

“Despite an outcry from downtown residents, the government has refused to commit to replacing École Whitehorse Elementary School with a new elementary school for families living downtown.”

Tredger called it “disappointing that the Liberals refuse to even acknowledge the need for an elementary school in downtown Whitehorse.

“Schools are the heart of a community. They make a community vibrant, inclusive and diverse,” added Tredger.

The Yukon Party supported the motion.

Despite the opposition of the Liberals, the passed NDP motion passed is now the will of the legislature, Tredger noted.

“It’s time for this government to listen to the downtown community and commit to keeping Whitehorse’s downtown a place where people want to live,” said Tredger.

She tabled more than 50 letters urging the government to keep a school in the downtown area.

Wednesday’s lengthy debate can be read via the transcripts the legislative assembly posts online.

Education Minister Jeanie McLean said earlier this week consultations about the decision have occurred, and more will in the coming months.

The government also said this week it’s seeking public input about school facilities in Whitehorse in the form of a survey.